The Society of St Augustine of Canterbury exists to promote and advance the Roman Catholic Religion in England and Wales with its key aim to help with the maintenance of a fund whose capital is used to assist with the expenditure and upkeep of Archbishop’s House, the official residence of the Archbishop of Westminster.

27th May 2010 – Annual General Meeting

Following poor weather in previous years, the date for this year’s AGM and Reception was deferred until after the start of British Summer Time, and around 100 members and their guests enjoyed arriving and leaving in the light! Unfortunately, temporary ill health prevented John Barrie from presiding over the meeting, his place as chairman being taken at short notice by the Secretary, Michael Milbourn.

The business of the meeting proceeded normally and Margaret Hood was elected to join the Council, alongside existing members who were re-elected en bloc. Members were given a report on the progress of the Special Appeal made by Archbishop Nichols for funds to enable urgent renovations of Archbishop’s House to take place.

After the AGM, members were joined by Archbishop Nichols and his secretary, Monsignor Martin Hayes. The Archbishop received the Society’s annual donation to Archbishop’s House and was promised a substantial amount when the Special Appeal was concluded later in the year. The Archbishop shared with members his thoughts on the challenges currently facing the church, and on the Papal visit in September, before enjoying a drink and informal conversation with many individual members.